ATW Daily News

Airbus moving toward solid composite fuselage on A350 XWB

Friday January 26, 2007

Airbus appears to be moving toward adopting a solid composite barrel for its A350 XWB after receiving mixed feedback on its plan to use composite panels on an aluminum frame.

According to industry analysts, trade studies are underway in Toulouse for the change. Last fall ATWOnline revealed that Airbus was swapping to a composite structure (ATWOnline, Oct. 25, 2006) and that the aircraft's EIS would slip to 2014.

The latest mooted change would not surprise Emirates President Tim Clark, who told this website yesterday that he feels the future lies in a 787-style structure. "That is the way [the industry] is going to go," he said.

Clark said the A350 XWB remains a bit of a mystery, adding that he doesn't want to discuss the aircraft with Airbus until it freezes the design. The 2014 timeline is a concern, although he said he does not want the manufacturer to rush the design, and he wants to see two engine-makers commit to the program, which "presents a problem for GE for the A350-1000." He added, "That said, we will still look at the A350 and what guarantees on performance and delivery Airbus are offering."

Like others, Clark has reservations about Airbus's ability to tackle both the 787-8 and the 777-300ER with one aircraft family. "If they succeed, Eureka. If not, well, it's a gamble."

Emirates would like to be in detailed discussions on the A350-1000 and the 787-10 by mid-year for an order for 60-100 aircraft. The order will not be split. On the 787-10 Clark would like to see more range, which Boeing is working to deliver.

by Geoffrey Thomas

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